Ileocecal intussusception in a foal

Intussusception is a serious condition that can affect young animals (aged 3 to 12 months), characterized by the invagination of one part of the intestine into another, leading to lesions and intestinal necrosis. It can occur spontaneously or secondarily due to intestinal motility disorders. Enteritis is a predisposing factor and, in older foals, mesenteric arteritis is a risk factor, as well as worm infestations, including ascarids, flatworms and clostridia. Other factors include sudden dietary changes and pedunculated masses. Clinical signs typically begin with abdominal discomfort, increased heart and respiratory rates, loss of appetite, and a distended abdomen on the right side, among other symptoms. Diagnosis is made through ultrasonography, and hematological tests may reveal toxemia due to rupture or necrosis of the intestinal loops. Prompt diagnosis and treatment improve the animal's prognosis.